Israel at the Egyptian cinema

The Israeli Ambassador to Egypt has paid a visit to an Egyptian cinema house to screen prominent Egyptian comedian-actor Adel Imam’s new film “Al Safara Fil Amarah” (The Embassy in the Building)

The Israeli Ambassador to Egypt has paid a visit to an Egyptian cinema house to screen prominent Egyptian comedian-actor Adel Imam’s new film “Al Safara Fil Amarah” (The Embassy in the Building).

The film sparked controversy when it was merely a proposed project. It is the first time an Egyptian film has presented a character that plays the role of the Israeli ambassador.

Adel held a press conference to clarify details regarding the film that tackles a very sensitive political issue, normalization of relations with Israel.

The film revolves around an Egyptian petrol engineer who has lived in Dubai for a quarter of a century, and finally returns home to discover that the Israeli Embassy is located right next door to his apartment.

Adel explained that the film aims to explore one main question, which is why Egyptians refused normalization until now. The film also elucidates the viewpoint of average Egyptian citizens to Israel, and to other countries with which Egypt has signed a peace agreement.

Adel also aims to show his audience that “art plays the most important and influential role to reflect the feelings of people.”

Adel stated that the film is a comedy, and his character tries desperately to stay away from politics, but to his disappointment finds himself engrossed in a major affair.

The film, directed by Sharif Arafeh, was shot in Dubai and at Al Ahram studios in Cairo.